Using Polling for Quick Checks

Using Polling for Quick Checks

In Active Learning Classrooms

1. Polling for Review

   The instructor spends a short period of time reviewing the concepts covered in a previous class or homework and then conducts a 3 – 5 question poll to check for understanding. This type of poll occurs during the beginning of a course period.

   

2. Polling for Evaluation

   The instructor spends time after covering concepts to conduct a 3 – 5 question poll that checks for understanding. This type of poll occurs towards the end of a course period.

   

3. Polling for Mastery

   The instructor uses 3 – 5 polling questions to test student mastery of a key concept covered. If 80% or more of the class answers correctly, then the instructor can move on to the next key concept. If students do not show mastery of a concept with a quick poll, the instructor can review the concept, check for understanding, and re-poll the class until students master the concept. This type of poll may occur multiple times over a course period.

   Pro Tip: In Active Learning Classrooms, students are seated in groups. To deepen learning, instructors can allow for students to discuss the questions a bit as a group before answering individually.

   

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   Types of Poll Questions

   • Review
     Review poll questions cover content that students have learned about in prior course sessions or through homework assignments.

   • Concept Check
     Concept check poll questions seek to verify that students have comprehended key concepts covered during the course thus far.

   • Definition Check
     Definition check poll questions ensure students understand the definition of key terms used in the course content.

   • Practice Check
     Practice check poll questions ask students to practice problem solving and computations using polling software.